This flavorful dal is inspired by Afghan cuisine and features creamy yellow peas simmered with aromatic ginger and spices. It’s a hearty, vegan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Ready in: 1 hour 10 minutes Serves: 4 Cuisine: Afghan, Vegan
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 ½ cups dried yellow peas (rinsed)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick (2 inches)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sambal oelek (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin, and turmeric. Sauté for 1 minute, allowing the aromas to bloom, and be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
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Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 70-90 minutes.
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During simmering, check the pot occasionally and add hot water if the liquid seems to be drying up too quickly. You want the peas to be submerged but not swimming in excess liquid.
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Once the peas are tender and creamy, remove the pot from heat. Stir in lemon juice, sambal oelek (adjust for desired spice level), salt, and pepper.
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Ladle the dal into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (optional). Serve with cooked basmati rice for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Soaking the split peas for 4-8 hours before cooking can shorten the simmering time by up to half. However, it’s not strictly necessary for this recipe.
- Be patient! Depending on the age and quality of your split peas, it may take closer to an hour and a half for them to fully soften.
- This recipe makes about 3 cups of dal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
